National Atomic Testing Museum
- Admission
- $29 adults, $24 seniors/military/youth (ages 7-14), free for children 6 and under
- Hours
- Monday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Duration
- 1.5 to 2 hours
- Parking
- Free parking is available in the dedicated lot directly in front of the museum building.
- Access
- The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with flat surfaces, wide aisles, and accessible restrooms.
Delve into the shadow of the Cold War at this Smithsonian Affiliate museum, which documents the history of nuclear testing in the Nevada desert. It's an unexpectedly chilling yet fascinating detour from the Strip, featuring real Geiger counters, pop-culture artifacts, and a simulated atmospheric bomb blast.
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Established in 2005, the National Atomic Testing Museum preserves the history of the Nevada Test Site and the nation's nuclear weapons program. Located just minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, it houses thousands of artifacts, photos, and interactive displays from the dawn of the atomic age to the present.
Visitors can walk through a replica of a testing control point, examine real radiation-detection equipment, and explore how atomic culture influenced American media. The museum's centerpiece is the Ground Zero Theater, which simulates the sensory experience of an atmospheric nuclear test with sudden blasts of air and rumbling seats.
Ratings
museum◆ Visitor Tips
- ◆ Don't miss the Ground Zero Theater simulation for an immersive look at a historical test blast.
- ◆ Allow extra time to browse the unique gift shop for quirky, atomic-themed souvenirs and books.
- ◆ Look out for the Area 51 exhibit, which details the myths and realities of the famous secret base.
Heads Up
- ◆ The Ground Zero Theater simulation features loud noises, flashing lights, and vibrations that may startle young children or sensitive visitors.
- ◆ Some exhibits cover heavy historical themes related to nuclear warfare and radiation.
Common questions
Is the National Atomic Testing Museum located on the Las Vegas Strip?
No, the museum is located off the Strip at 755 East Flamingo Road, which is about a mile and a half east of the main Las Vegas Strip near the UNLV campus.
Does the Ground Zero Theater experience simulate a nuclear blast?
Yes, the theater simulates what it was like to witness an atmospheric nuclear test in the Nevada desert. It uses loud sound effects, flashing lights, and a sudden gust of air to mimic the shockwave.
Is the Area 51 exhibit included in standard admission?
Yes, the "Area 51: Myth or Reality" exhibit is a permanent installation and is included with the purchase of a standard general admission ticket.
Is there free parking at the National Atomic Testing Museum?
Yes, free parking is available for museum visitors in the designated parking lot directly in front of the building.